While MapQuest may have improved our travel efficiency back in 1999, a new generation of travel aids is revolutionizing the way we get from Point A to Point B. In-car Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are more affordable and user friendly than ever. Here are our top picks. –adam jones
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Garmin StreetPilot C340 GPS Pros: Brilliant touch screen for typing names and addresses, text-to-speech directions, pre-loaded maps of North America.Cons: Traffic updates require subscription. $299.00
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HP iPaq rx5900 Companion Pros: PDA functionality, comes with car dock and charger, built-in WiFi and Bluetooth to round out connectivity options.Cons: Battery lasts only 90 minutes. $599.99 |
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Pioneer Avic-N3 Pros: Best in-dash navigation, searches telephone numbers, gives turn-by-turn directions while playing a DVD, large 6.5” screen.Cons: Costly installation. $1,800.00 |
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Magellan Maestro 4040 Pros: Bird’s eye, 3-D view, automatically recalculates if you miss a turn, optimized database of gas stations, restaurants and ATMs, large icons.Cons: Removes map from screen while recalculating a missed turn. $329.99 |
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Tom Tom GO 720 Pros: Sleek and offers up-to-date maps and safety info, text-to-speech functionality, integrated Bluetooth and multimedia capabilities.Cons: Only compatible with small number of Bluetooth-enabled phones. $399.99 |
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Lowrance iWay 350c Pros: Strong receiver, 3.5” screen, compact design, long battery life.Cons: No text-to-speech technology, small hard drive. $282.00 |
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Navigon 7100 Pros: Subscription-free traffic, reality view, 4.3” screen.Cons: Bluetooth phone interface doesn’t synchronize phone’s contact list or call history. $549.99 |
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Garmin nuvi 680 Pros: Location-based services provide real-time information on traffic, weather, gas prices and movies on a 4.3” screen.Cons: Price. $759.99 |
